National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Practice Exam

In the event of a medical emergency, who is responsible for providing care?

1. Only the dentist

2. The dental assistant only

3. The office staff only

4. The dentist and the dental team

The correct answer is: The dentist and the dental team

The dentist and the dental team share the responsibility for providing care during a medical emergency in a dental setting. This collaborative approach ensures that the necessary skills and knowledge from each member of the dental team are utilized effectively. In emergencies, the dentist typically takes the lead, as they are trained to diagnose and manage critical situations. However, dental assistants and other staff members are also crucial in supporting the dentist by following established emergency protocols, assisting with patient care, and managing the environment to ensure the patient's safety. Effective teamwork enhances the response to emergencies, allowing for quicker assessment and intervention, which can be vital for patient outcomes. Each team member has specific roles; for example, the dental assistant may be tasked with calling 911, retrieving emergency supplies, or providing support to the patient, while the dentist focuses on assessment and treatment. This coordinated effort maximizes the chance of a successful outcome for the patient experiencing the emergency.